hijo único
Lemma Details
Translation: only child; single child
Part of Speech: noun phrase
Etymology: The phrase combines 'hijo' (child, son) from Latin 'filius' and 'único' (only, sole) from Latin 'unicus' meaning 'only one, sole, singular'. The concept reflects family structures where parents have just one child, which has cultural significance in many societies including Spain and Latin America.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 70%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Como hijo único, nunca tuve que compartir mis juguetes.
As an only child, I never had to share my toys.
Ser hijo único tiene sus ventajas y desventajas.
Being an only child has its advantages and disadvantages.
Sus padres decidieron tener un hijo único por razones económicas.
His parents decided to have an only child for economic reasons.
Mnemonics
- 'Único' sounds like 'unique' - an only child is unique in their family as they have no siblings.
- Think of 'hijo único' as a 'unique child' in the family structure.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In many Spanish-speaking countries, being an 'hijo único' has traditionally carried certain stereotypes about being spoiled or overprotected. However, with changing family structures and declining birth rates in many Spanish-speaking countries, having an only child has become increasingly common and socially accepted.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'hijo único' refers to a child with no siblings, 'hijo unigénito' is a more formal or literary term specifically emphasizing that the child is the only one born to those parents.
This word:
María es hija única y a veces se siente sola.
Maria is an only child and sometimes feels lonely.
Notes: 'Hijo unigénito' has religious connotations and is less commonly used in everyday speech.
Mnemonic: 'Único' is for everyday use about family structure; 'unigénito' has 'génito' (related to genesis/birth) and is more formal or religious.